The Ragnar Curse of Indian Startup Founders

“The Innovator's Dilemma”, Christensen (1997) paints the failure of well-managed enterprises. The management methods that helped them to be the leading enterprises will also seriously hinder them from developing destructive technologies, eventually swallowing their markets.

Imagine a company that's doing great, making lots of money with its current products. But then, a new technology comes along that's simpler and cheaper, appealing to a different audience. This new technology could eventually take over the whole market, even if it's not as good as the existing product.

Here's the problem: the same things that made the successful company successful, like focusing on their existing customers and making their products better, can actually prevent them from adopting this new technology. They might not see the need to change, or they might be afraid to cannibalize their own profits by offering a simpler, cheaper product.

This is what Clayton Christensen calls the "Innovator's Dilemma." Even the best companies can struggle to adapt to disruptive change, and this can lead to their downfall.

Let us now focus on a Historical lesson and talk about the Viking warlord and king called Ragnar Lothbrok.

Is Ragnar Lothbrok a Myth or Reality?

We don’t know if Ragnar Lothbrok, the Viking king who raided England and France,who stands at the crossroads of myth and history lays bare facts or reality. The details of his life remain shrouded in mystery, but this legend has captivated audiences for centuries.

The Icelandic sagas, particularly written centuries after Ragnar's supposed death, paint a picture of a daring warrior and leader. However, historical evidence is scarce. References in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle and Frankish chronicles mention Viking raids led by "Ragnall" and "Reginherus," potentially Ragnar himself. These accounts suggest raids in England, France, and Ireland, aligning with the sagas.

The Sons of Ragnar: Fact or Fiction?

Ragnar's sons, Ivar the Boneless, Bjorn Ironside, and Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye, are historical figures linked to the Viking invasion of England. While their exact relationship to Ragnar remains debated, they claimed him as their father, possibly to bolster their own stature.

The Great Heathen Army and a Legacy of Conquest:

Regardless of the true nature of Ragnar, his legend inspired the Great Heathen Army that invaded England in 865 AD. This invasion led to the Danelaw, a period of Norse rule in parts of England.

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